Shop > Paper Bags

Traditional paper bags for retail use come in a wide range of sizes and various materials.

Sizes: The most popular sizes are square, mainly used in the retail food business. The clothing trade has for many years preferred rectangular sizes, known as Millinery Bags (Millys for short!). When referring to bags sizes, always quote the WIDTH first.

Bags are made as FLATS, i.e. without a gusset, or SATCHELS, i.e. bags with a GUSSET on either side. When measuring the SATCHELS, quote the measurement across the CLOSED face, then across the OPEN face, followed by the depth, top to base.

Finally, some bulky products such as flour, sugar, coffee, and prescription medicines are packed in SATCHELS with a BLOCKED BOTTOM, allowing the bag to stand freely.

Paper: Apart from very specialised requirements, most bags are made from either SULPHITE or KRAFT papers. The SUBSTANCE (or weight) of the paper is measured in Grams per Square Metre (Typically 36gsm).

The retail food business tends to use the more economical SULPHITE (mainly white or slightly off-white) or Imitation Kraft (various shades of brown, with or without a glaze). Traditionally, these are supplied 'strung' on lots of 100 for ease of use. Although these papers can be printed, customers requiring a superior print finish, should opt for the better quality PURE KRAFT, which is available in Brown, or Bleached White, offered with or without a feint 'ribbed effect'.

Once popular, greaseproof paper has been superseded by a paper / polythene laminate. This is used mainly in the Hot Food/ Takeaway trade.

We welcome enquiries from all types of business requiring special print.